Solid particles such as pigments and fillers are important components of paints, coatings, and inks. The dispersion of solid particles in liquids is an important process in the production of paints and inks. Various pigments such as organic pigments and carbon black are not easy to disperse, and they tend to form agglomerates (groups of pigment particles).  These pigments and fillers must be well dispersed and stabilized in the formulation to ensure consistent color, quality, efficiency, and durability.

A special kind of coating additives called dispersants or dispersing agents are used to wet and disperse pigments and other solid particles in the liquid medium during the production of paints, coatings, and ink. This dispersants also helps in assisting suspension of the solid compound in the solution and stabilizing the resulting dispersion.

By evenly dispersing solid particles in the suspension, dispersants can improve stability and prevent solid particles from settling or clumping.  Furthermore, with the improved efficeincy of dispersion process, dispersants can also help reduce viscosity of the solution and offer possibility for increased pigment concentration.  For formulators, they represent an essential component because they can provide optimal color strength, gloss, viscosity, stability and prevention of particle sedimentation.